A new concept in electric vehicle (EV) charging is being trialled in regional New South Wales, bringing accessible charging options to residents and visitors alike.
Essential Energy, EV charging company EVX, and composite fibre technology company Wagners have partnered to develop a streetlight EV charger, aiming for a low-impact and convenient solution.
The prototype charger, installed in Port Macquarie, utilises the existing electricity powering the streetlight.
This eliminates the need for additional infrastructure and major earthworks, minimising environmental disruption and visual clutter.
Streetlights, conveniently located near parking spaces, have the potential to become a network of “top-up” charging points across regional NSW.
Essential Energy Chief Commercial Officer Justin Hillier said: “Essential Energy has been working in partnership with Wagners CFT and EVX to develop a product that provides a faster and easier way to roll out more EV charging.
The innovation of the streetlight EV charger also provides the opportunity for people who live in housing that can’t be retrofitted with charging facilities to purchase EVs, as well as offering top-up charging for tourists and locals.
EVX CEO Andrew Foster sees this as a significant development for local councils.
“Essential Energy has been working in partnership with Wagners CFT and EVX to develop a product that provides a faster and easier way to roll out more EV charging.
“Enabling more options for charging across the Essential Energy network is part of our commitment to facilitating the uptake of electric vehicles,” said Foster.
The public is encouraged to use the free-to-use charger during the four-week trial and provide feedback through a QR code on the streetlight column.
The streetlight EV charger is located near 1 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie and will be operational until 10 June 2024.
